On Thursday afternoon, a shocking bank robbery took place in Berea, Kentucky, at the Bank of America branch in the city center. An armed gunman entered the bank and opened fire, resulting in the tragic deaths of two bank employees. The suspect is currently on the run, and law enforcement has launched a large-scale manhunt.
The incident occurred around 2 p.m. on Thursday at the Bank of America branch on Chestnut Street. A masked and gloved man entered the bank and started shooting at the employees, hitting a male and a female staff member. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting, and law enforcement authorities have not disclosed details regarding any cash or property losses at the bank.
Madison County Coroner Jimmy Cornelison confirmed that one victim died on the spot, while the other passed away after being taken to Saint Joseph Berea Hospital. The identities and ages of the two victims have not been made public yet.
“They were people who served our community, and now they have left us forever,” said Scottie Pennington, a spokesperson for the Kentucky State Police, during a press conference. “We currently have some leads and are doing everything in our power to bring this evil individual to justice.”
According to the police description and subsequent photos released, the suspect is a male standing approximately 6 feet 3 inches tall, wearing a gray and white hooded sweatshirt, gray sweatpants, and light-colored sneakers during the incident.
Police stated that the suspect fled the scene on foot after the crime, and it is currently unclear if anyone assisted them or if they switched to a vehicle later on.
To apprehend this individual considered “extremely dangerous and armed,” various enforcement agencies, including the Berea Police Department, Kentucky State Police, FBI, and ATF, have locked down the surrounding areas.
Law enforcement has deployed helicopters, drones, and K-9 units while conducting searches and collecting surveillance footage from house to house.
Bank of America has released a statement expressing deep sorrow for the loss of their employees.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragedy that occurred earlier today at our Berea branch in Kentucky, claiming the lives of two of our employees,” Bank of America stated. “Our hearts are with the families of the victims, our colleagues, and the entire Berea community.”
Due to the incident, schools in Berea temporarily implemented preventive lockdown measures. Students were instructed to stay indoors, and school bus services were suspended for the day, with parents being asked to pick up their children personally.
Pennington urged residents to remain vigilant, turn on porch lights, and keep their phones charged. He added, “If you notice any suspicious activity or something feels off – such as unusual behavior from your pets at home – please call us immediately.”